Poland, located at the heart of the European continent borders seven countries – Germany, Slovakia, Czechia, Lithuania, Belarus, Ukraine, and Russian Kaliningrad. Its capital is Warsaw and its population is similar to Canada’s at approximately 38.4 million – in a space much tinier than Canada. (Poland’s area is 312,685 sq. km. while Canada is nearly 10 million sq. km.)
The language is Polish but English is spoken as a second language by approximately 30% of Polish people – more English is used in urban areas. The country has a variety of landscapes – from beaches on the Baltic Seas, to farmlands, to mountain ranges.
Places to Visit
Gdansk
Gdansk is a historic city on the Baltic Sea. It is filled with storybook charm and history and is referred to as a city of ‘freedom and solidarity’ as thousands of its shipyard workers rose up against the communist regime in 1980 winning concessions for workers’ rights that had global impacts.
Things to Do in Gransk
Krakow
As one of Poland’s oldest cities, Krakow is steeped in history. Krakow was formerly the country’s capital and its Historic Centre has been a UNESCO World Heritage Site for 40 years. The architecture here is stunning. While many of the city’s sites are mythical and entertaining, there are also significant links to the Holocaust in Krakow.
Things to Do in Krakow
- Oskar Schindler’s Enamel Factory (site of Museum of Contemporary Art and the Historical Museum of the City of Krakow)
- Auschwitz-Birkenau Memorial and Museum
- The Rynek Underground
- Main Market Square
Warsaw
Warsaw is situated in the heart of Europe and is Poland’s capital city. With a population of approximately 1.9 million, Warsaw is a major economic, academic, cultural and tourist hub.
Things to Do in Warsaw
Accommodations in Poland
International hotel brands have a presence in Polish cities and rates are generally affordable. ($120-180 avg) Airbnb units are also available and there are listings and ratings for Polish hostels on Hostelworld.
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